Drivers May Steer Clear Of Code For Frantic Clash

February 7, 1986|By Tim Povtak of The Sentinel Staff

DAYTONA BEACH — The Code of the Road, the thin line of courtesy that has maintained a semblance of order in high-stakes stock-car racing, may disappear completely Sunday in the eighth annual Busch Clash.

Hard-charging Neil Bonnett, who knows more than anyone about sticking the nose of his car in places it doesn't belong, said Thursday there is every indication that the prestigious Clash may have a different look this time -- like chaos.

''Reckless abandon like you haven't seen,'' Bonnett said. ''I think it's going to be a very physical race, a lot of bumping and shoving. That kind of thing used to go on only at the short tracks, at slower speeds. Now, you'll see it here. That Code doesn't seem to exist anymore.''

Bonnett, the only two-time winner, drew the outside pole postion Thursday and will sit alongside Harry Gant, who won the coveted inside spot in a blind draw for the eight drivers.

Bonnett's observation isn't the most comforting thought for the drivers, but it should delight the fans here and a CBS (WCPX-Ch. 6) national television audience. The race starts at 1 p.m.

Although the 50-mile, 20-lap dash at the Daytona International Speedway, comprised only of the previous season's pole winners, is the richest per-lap race in motor sports, it often has resembled football's Super Bowl -- never quite able to live up to its hype.

''I think all that will change this year,'' said Darrell Waltrip, who won the race in 1981.

There are numerous reasons why Bonnett and Waltrip are looking for more of the no-holds-barred racing that was predicted when this made-for-television event was born in 1979.

Although the race may last only 15 minutes, the winner's purse has been raised to a minimum of $50,000. The leader on each lap will receive at least $1,250. The leader on laps 5, 10 and 15 will receive another $5,000.

Another reason is the handling of this year's models. Although speeds have been faster -- all eight entries have been over 200 mph in testing, many in the 203-205 range -- the improved aerodynamics make them easier to drive.

''Security is back in the cars,'' Bonnett said. ''They are more travel- able this year. My car handles better now at 204 mph than it did at 200 mph last year. I'm sure it's the same for everybody. People are going to be more willing to take chances.''

Bonnett also points to the seven other drivers. All have been involved in the Clash at least once before. It is the youngest lineup ever.

None of the long-time stars -- Richard Petty, David Pearson, Cale Yarborough, Buddy Baker, Bobby Allison -- who aren't as likely to take risks, made the field.

''You take one look at the cast of characters involved this year, and you know no one out there backs off,'' Bonnett said. ''Everyone knows if you want in the line, you're going to have to root your way in. And if you dish it out, you better be willing to take it, too.''

Behind Gant and Bonnett are Rusty Wallace and Dale Earnhardt in the second row, Waltrip and Bill Elliott in the third row and Terry Labonte and Geoff Bodine in the fourth row.